This is a strong example of an early 2nd Model 1873 rifle in 44-40 with 24" octagon barrel, full magazine, and crescent rifle buttplate.  Serial number is in the 75,000 range and was made in the year 1881.  It has all of the classic second model features, the most notable being the external trigger pin located below the hammer and tang screws on the sides of the receiver.  It also has the screwed-in dust cover rail...this later became intregrated to the frame on the 3rd model.  It also has the early style sights which include the short semi-buckhorn rear sight with checkered sides and standard German silver blade front sight. 

Overall condition is NRA Antique Fine+ to Excellent with 80% original receiver blue.  Hammer retains 70% original case colors which are fading...lever has thin mottled case colors with bright colors in the protected areas. Load port shows 35% bright original fire blue.  Barrel and magazine tube retain 85-90% original blue.  Excellent markings throughout and sharp edges.  Very good screws overall.  Barrel and brass loading block have no caliber markings which is correct for all 73's in 44-40 made prior to approx. the year 1884...as this was the original caliber for this model.  VG wood overall....shows use and some rubbing on the stock but looks nice with matching assembly numbers on the stock, lower tang, and buttplate.  Wood to metal fit is tight with all wood surfaces even to slight proud of the metal.  One small chip near top toe of buttplate. Strong crisp action and an excellent bright shiny bore.  This is one of the best 2nd Models we've found in several years....although 2nd Models outnumber 1st Models by about two to one, I've see more 1st Models in high condition than I do 2nd models.  This is a great early 73 built during the early 1880's. 

Item# 0289

SOLD